A 3 Day Holiday Treat: Montreal's Walkable Winter Wonderland

We started the day with brunch at Crew Collective, a unique cafe housed within a historic bank building. Bustling with patrons, a beautiful representation of local food and vintage architecture. We then walked through the holiday decorations adorning Plaza St. Jacque and the Place D’Armes square bordering Old Montreal and the more modern-designed downtown hub. A reminder of a city growing up but keeping it's landmarks, St. Patrick’s Basilica proudly stands.

We followed this with a proper tea at the Fairmont Hotel before heading back to our hotel to freshen up before our evening festivities. The Aura Experience at Notre Dame’s Basilica is a can’t-miss performance illuminating the interior of the church synchronized to a classical symphony of music. We followed the show with dinner at Brasserie 701 (highly recommend the French onion soup) before retiring to our room.

We launched our adventure in Old Montreal with delectable hazelnut lattes and pain au chocolat croissants at Le Peiti Depot, across the street from our hotel. Homemade artisan fare is served in a boutique setting featuring local artisan gifts and goods. We then headed toward the Old Port and St. Charles River, traveling through the “past” architectural marvels that are now a cluster of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Rue St. Paul is one of the main streets that meanders through Old Montreal with an eclectic mix of upscale, Montreal-centric, places to get lost in.

We had lunch at Tommy’s (another hot spot) then wandered down to the iconic domed building that is the Bonsecours Market. This heritage building showcases “made in Montreal” boutiques and fresh market cheese, wine, and everything maple. Don’t miss Cave Manger to pick up some truly spectacular patisserie and pastry.

As dusk began, the lights of the town sparkled as we took in the La Grande Roue de Montreal (a large Ferris Wheel giving 360 degree views). Dinner at L’usine de Spaghetti (an extensive menu with the best escargot appetizer!) gave us a warm welcome to fuel up before trekking to the The Great Montreal Christmas Market. Following the many illuminated holiday decorative lights, the Christmas Market is a “village” of traditional Montreal foods and artisan craftsman booths to purchase everything from candles, clothing, chocolates, and jewelry while sampling various maple-flavored whiskies. It comes to life in the evening and guests can hang out at the fire pits or enjoy live music and revelry until 10 pm.

On our last day, we started with brunch at Olive & Gourmando, an all-in-one cafe, bakery, and boutique featuring homemade seasonal food as well as a curated collection of kitchen dishware, accessories, and pottery. Our last day took us to Bota Boat Spa Sur L’eau on Old Montreal’s waterfront for a relaxing and rejuvenating spa day. Even in the colder weather, this wellness experience is a “must”. We wrapped up the day with a quaint Italian-inspired dinner at Trattoria Gio.